Memory Fragments

"Hello!" Dad answered my phone, his perpetually round voice never changing.

"How are things going for you?" I inquired. He was alone back at home as after Aneeqa, I had also moved to Glasgow for studies.

"How could I be? Dad remarked, "You both left me here by myself." he complained.

"But wasn't that your idea to send us abroad?" I replied in defense.

"Yeah, you can blame your Dad for being lonely because of his own decision," he laughed wryly. His laughter was cut short by his cough, and I suggested that he sip some water.

I arrived in Glasgow a few days ago; I was very exhausted. Yesterday, I arrived at my apartment to find it in shambles, forcing me to spend the day cleaning it. Today, I am busier than ever with my packed itinerary.

I was engrossed in a slew of activities so, I couldn't call him. He must be very lonely, I thought.

He's been alone since mom died, though. My sister's decision to stay in Glasgow seemed purposeless, especially since I could comprehend his loneliness. She might've found more opportunities elsewhere, but she decided to stay in Glasgow anyhow.

Now that I'm here, I'll make sure to send her back as soon as possible, I thought.

There is always a little bit of sadness, no matter who you are, regardless of the social class you are born into. This is especially true for my father, a former bureaucrat, who gave us a comfortable life, but he is slowly dying now.

"Dad, you should probably find a better way to use your time. Gardening is something you really enjoy. While it isn't a particularly time-consuming pastime, it allows you to have fun. Try to spend the time that way," I said as he drank some water, and we continued conversing.

"Yeah, yeah, now my son will teach me dos and don'ts," Dad said, and I knew he was smiling on the other end, thousands of miles away in Pakistan.

"Anyway, do you take your medications on time?" I shifted the subject while smiling.

I don't often smile, but his voice inspires me to keep going. I am a sad, homely young man trapped in a body that people find attractive. He brings the brightness of happiness to my life; he motivates me to achieve more incredible things; he constantly helps me to get through the things that hold me back.

"Of course," Dad replied.

"That's great. Uh, Dad, I'm exhausted, and I really have to get going. We'll talk again later. "Take care," I murmured, having run out of things to say. He was well aware of my lack of communication skills.

"OK, beta, may you make the most of your time there, stay blessed, my son," Dad remarked with fatherly compassion.

"Miss you, Dad, and love you too," I added before hanging up.